Keith Schrader, Vice President
Defense & Space
Keith Schrader is the Vice President for Defense and Space at Spirit AeroSystems. He has been in the aviation industry for more than 25 years, having worked for Boeing, Spirit, Walbar Engine Components, GKN, and LMI Aerospace in executive operations and program rolls for both commercial and defense programs.
Schrader began his career in 1997 at Boeing as a sheet metal mechanic on the 747, progressive responsibilities on the 737, 767, 777, 787 and KC-46 fuselage and propulsion programs. During this time, he led the 777 to successful delivery of the initial phase of the freighter, concepted and put in place the “Service Ready” approach to 100% defect free products. In 2010, he stepped outside of manufacturing to successfully lead the stand up of the Spirit Global Quality group.
In 2013, he left Spirit to pursue executive roles at GKN Aerospace, LMI Aerospace, and Walbar Engine Components. Schrader returned to Spirit in April 2024. During his ongoing defense tenure, he has led teams to oversee and support customers on the B-21, F-15, F-18, CH53K, and F-35 platforms.
Schrader holds a Bachelor of Science from Southwestern University and an MBA from Baker University.